Has anyone ran backwaters swomp 13? Not the kit but the whole assembly they have? I have a 1448 polar craft and not really looking for speed but what kinda speeds is it getting. Cant find a video online anywhere. I spoke with jake and he said the 13 actually runs smoother than the 23 but is the same weight and 10 more hp. My only thing is the price. 2800 is better than 3300. 500 bucks is alot with solo income etc. Ive gotten by with 420cc predator and a tai longtail but im looking to upgrade. Thanks

go with the 23hp... The setup you are talking about with the 420cc predator is basically the same engine as the 13hp honda... having too much hp is always better than not enough with these longtails...

I concur with Swamp Donkey1, sure is a lot of money for one of these "glorified lawnmower" motors, the 23 is a good fit for that 1448, and dollar for dollar, and weight-wise too; can't beat the recoil start bonus. The extra $500 is a darn good investment.

Look at it this way, pay $500 more today for the 23hp and skip the 13HP and you'll be $500 ahead in 12 months, that's $1000 if you buy the smaller engine and then want the larger one

Mud Motor economics 101: If you buy the 13 hp run it for a year, sell it for 500 less than you paid for it and spend the additional $500 like you should have in the first place upgrading to the 23Hp it's now cost you $1000 to go to the 23hp instead of the 500 from day one. Set aside some of each paycheck for a few months, you've got time before duck season. I don't know anyone who died from not getting a motor the first day he decided he needed one so you should be safe.
On a side note I run a 10hp and almost bought a 13 then a 23 because it's not that much heavier, but in the end 10 hp suited me for a boat motor combo I could easily carry a short distance (with help). I friend has a 23hp SWOMP and it rips. Running both our boats empty it just about keeps up with my 35 SWOMP. It has to be the best all around motor and most versatile choice.

Is there an echo in here???

I'll back what has already been said. Keep saving and get the 23.

another vote for you going with the 23. I run the 23 on my 1448 and it's about perfect. Can't imagine going any smaller.